Guys and ghouls won’t be the only ones out and about in the New Forest on Halloween – look out for spooky giveaways as darkness falls.

Hampshire Police, Hampshire County Council’s Accredited Community Safety Officers (ACSOs) and Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service officers will attend some local organised community events on October 31 to hand out lollies and flashing arm bands to give the message ‘Be safe, be seen’.

The community engagement, funded by the Safer New Forest Partnership, aims to raise safety awareness. The fire officers will also be offering fire safety advice.

New Forest Chief Inspector Simon Tribe said: “Halloween and Bonfire Night should be fun for everyone and not an excuse for antisocial behaviour. We want revellers to stay safe and be seen in the dark, enjoy the occasion and we look forward to chatting with people at local events.”

The Partnership urges New Forest youngsters and their parents to be considerate towards their neighbours and to respect the wishes of those who do not want to be visited by people trick or treating.

Anybody who doesn’t want to be disturbed at home this Halloween can download and print out a copy of the Hampshire Constabulary ‘No Trick or Treat’ poster to display by your front door. This can be found here, click on the link to print out your No Trick or Treat poster.

“Let your neighbours know beforehand that you’ll be out and about at Halloween or having a firework party – a simple act of courtesy will go a long way,” said Cllr Jill Cleary, New Forest District Council Portfolio Holder for Housing and Communities.

“Be a good neighbour; don’t make Halloween a nightmare for others.”

If you are concerned about antisocial behaviour in your neighbourhood, call Hampshire police on 101.